Visiting Chimney Park In North Dakota
- Address: 201 E River Rd, Medora, ND 58645
- GPS: 46.9162, -103.52919
- Hours: 24/7
- Price: Free
Located in Medora, North Dakota, the Chimney Park Historic Picnic Area was once the site of the Marquis de Mores’ meatpacking plant and is also commonly known as the De Mores Packing Plant Ruins.
The Marquis de Mores, a French nobleman who arrived in North Dakota in the late 19th century, played a pivotal role in the regional meatpacking industry. The site encompassed the packing plant itself, a slaughterhouse, three icehouses, various outbuildings, an abattoir, a cooper shop, a fertilizer room, and a corral.
The packing plant was initially erected in 1883 but ceased operations in 1886 and was later destroyed by fire in 1907. In 1936, the State Historical Society acquired the site.
Today, all that remains are the imposing native clay brick chimney, along with some partially preserved stone and brick foundations. An abattoir is also present on-site, but I’m uncertain if it’s original. Informative boards are placed around the area, offering historical insights about the plant.
Following an exploration of the ruins, visitors can unwind in one of the numerous picnic shelters beneath the shade of cottonwood trees alongside the Little Missouri River. Restrooms and ample parking are available for convenience.
These ruins are conveniently situated just outside the Theodore Roosevelt National Park South Entrance, making them easily accessible for those visiting the national park. Despite their modest size, they offer a valuable window into the region’s rich history.